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Whether you’re an experienced diver, a novice, or are developing interest in the sport, there is a lot to learn. Accessing the beauty and wonder of underwater worlds is no small feat and takes a lot of practice and knowledge. Here are ten diving pro tips to help you expand you become a better diver, no matter your current skill level.

Not all instructors and facilities are the same. This goes without saying, but for new divers, it’s important to consider a number of factors when choosing facilities and instructors. What kind of diving do you plan to do? Does the facility have an on-site pool? Is your instructor experienced in the area you’ll be diving?

Be patient. Again, being patient is good advice for new divers, but it can also be a good reminder for those with experience. Whether just getting started, just getting back into the sport, or trying to learn something new, it won’t be instant and will take time and effort.

It’s okay to take it slow. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, you don’t have to show off. Safety is paramount and the whole reason for the dive is the experience. If you’re feeling uncomfortable descending or ascending at a certain rate, slow it down. Go at the rate most comfortable for you.

Get your own gear. While you don’t have to get your own gear, there are a handful of reasons that you should. First, after so long, owning gear will be cheaper than renting it each time you dive. Second, having your own gear means you’ll be able to use it over and over, giving you the opportunity to become familiar and comfortable with diving in it.

Know the signs of faulty equipment. It’s important to know the signs of faulty equipment before it breaks. If you have odd smelling or tasting air, air leaks, jumping indicator needles, or other abnormal equipment symptoms, play it safe and have it checked and fixed (if necessary) before you go diving.

Know the signs of nitrogen narcosis. Nitrogen narcosis is something that happens when you dive deep. It’s the temporary loss of senses and movement and it can be dangerous. Some signs include poor coordination, slow reaction, anxiety, giddiness, dizziness, and tunnel vision, among others. Learning the signs and being able to recognize them during a dive is imperative.

Remember to stay calm. One of the main reasons for accidents during a dive is panic. Learning and practicing self-calming techniques and preparing yourself for common situations that could happen during a dive can help you to keep a level head in case of a dive emergency.

Pay attention to your breathing. If you’re feeling anxious, excited, or apprehensive, your breathing will be quick and short. When diving, it’s important to avoid quick, short breaths and breath at a slow, deep, and relaxed rate. Shallow breaths are richer in CO2 which can cause problems during a dive.

Take a buddy. This goes without saying. You should never dive alone. Taking a buddy or two or three will help ensure that you have backup in case something happens. Always be sure to tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to be back, as well. It could make all the difference in case of an emergency.

Have fun. Although it’s important to be prepared, it’s equally important to enjoy yourself and have fun! Don’t forget what you’ve learned, but enjoy everything there is to enjoy during your dive.

As a PADI certified divemaster, you become a diving professional and can supervise scuba dive trainings and lead dives. PADI requires these things from its divemaster candidates:

At least 18 years old

PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certified

PADI Rescue Diver certified

EFR Primary and Secondary Care completed within past two years

Medical Statement ‘fit to dive’

40 logged dives before starting the course

60 logged dives when finishing the course

At GoPro Blue Magic, our internships accept all candidates as potential divemasters, with four- to eight-week programs that will bring you through each certification level you need to finally qualify as a divemaster. Whether you already have your Rescue Diver certification or are just starting out with scuba, our program will work for you.

So, you want to quit the 9 to 5 grind and become a PADI Divemaster? Here are some things to keep in mind:

It is Challenging. While fun is part of the job, being a divemaster means you must be familiar with a wide range of subjects: marine science, oceanography, physics, physiology, physical, education, mechanics, public relations and psychology.

People Skills are a Must. You’ll be dealing with a wide range of personalities and temperaments.

Willingness to Work Long and Irregular Hours. This includes weekends and holiday.

Few, if any, people get into diving to trying to make millions. It’s about a love of the ocean and a love of working with others. Still, if you’re taking the time to get PADI certified, you don’t just love scuba diving, you probably want to make a career out of it.

Dive shops are the first thought most people have, organizing dives for others in places around the world, working with resorts and independently in many vacation destinations. But it’s not the only choice. Cruise lines often employ divemasters as well, to cater to their passengers.

And of course, your training doesn’t have to end after you become divemaster. If you go one to become a dive instructor or a rescue diver even more possibilities open up for you.

A scuba diving trip is something that seems to be on most everyone’s bucket list. Why should it be on yours? If you go on a diving trip to Cozumel in the Caribbean, here are some of the things you might see.

Green, hawksbill, and loggerhead turtles.

Eagle rays.

Sea horses.

Splendid toadfish.

Much, much more!

Not Just Once in a Lifetime

At Blue Magic Scuba in Cozumel we not only offer diving tours, but share the knowledge, skills, and experience we’ve built up as master scuba divers and instructors. Your trip doesn’t have to end you’re your tour’s over, you can dive again and again after completing our internship program. Visit us today at www.divemasterinternship.org.